DAVENPORT, FL – A family dispute escalated into a tragic incident on a quiet Wednesday evening in Davenport, leaving a 26-year-old man dead and a community in shock. Authorities reported that Kelly Garcia, 43, is facing charges of second-degree murder and unlawful firearm storage following the fatal shooting of his stepson, Azarel Martinez, during an argument over a video game.
The confrontation began when Garcia’s 9-year-old stepson was playing the popular game Fortnite, despite being forbidden by his mother, Adrian Gaza. In response to this defiance, Gaza confiscated the child’s cellphone. The situation took a dark turn when the child retrieved a gun from a nightstand, prompting Garcia to intervene and seize the weapon.
As tensions rose, Martinez confronted Garcia over his disciplinary methods, which had long been a source of contention within the household. Witnesses recount that Garcia, known for his strict approach, clashed with Martinez, who disapproved of his stepfather’s parenting style.
In the heat of the argument, Garcia allegedly fired the gun multiple times, striking Martinez in the chest and abdomen. As Martinez attempted to retreat, Garcia reportedly followed him into a hallway, continuing to shoot. Investigators have ruled out self-defense, citing that Martinez was shot twice in the back and showing no evidence of physical aggression towards Garcia.
The incident has left the family shattered, with Gaza mourning the loss of her son and grappling with the trauma inflicted on her younger children, aged 9 and 11, who witnessed the shooting. Authorities emphasize the importance of firearm safety, noting the tragic consequences of the child’s knowledge of the gun’s location.
Community members are now left to reflect on the devastating impact of the incident, which has not only claimed the life of a young man but also left deep emotional scars on those involved. As the legal proceedings unfold, the neighborhood remains enveloped in a somber silence, a stark contrast to the chaos that erupted that night.
The tragedy serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers of firearms in the home and the need for responsible storage practices. It also highlights the importance of addressing underlying family tensions before they escalate into violence.